The new WSL season kicked off on Friday, September 5, with Chelsea hosting Manchester City at Stamford Bridge for the first time. The Blues picked up right where they left off last season, securing a 2–1 victory. For the Citizens, it was a disappointing opener—not only the defeat, but also the injury to young prospect Lily Murphy.
- Manchester City fell to a 2-1 defeat against reigning champions Chelsea in their opening match of the 2025–26 Barclays Women’s Super League season under new head coach Andrée Jeglertz. This match marked Jeglertz’s competitive debut at the helm.
- The deadlock was broken in the 31st minute when Aggie Beever-Jones scored, finishing off a cross from Chelsea’s debutant Ellie Carpenter.
- Chelsea doubled their lead in the 64th minute with a goal by Maika Hamano, set up by a precise pass from Wieke Kaptein.
- Manchester City pulled one back via an own goal from Niamh Charles in the 70th minute, converting a free kick from Alex Greenwood.
- The match ended on a somber note for City, as they suffered late injuries to key players Alex Greenwood and promising young Lily Murphy, dampening their comeback efforts.
